EVERTON FIGHT FOR DOHERTY

The 16-year-old has been offered the deal at Goodison Park for when he leaves school, but he is set to listen to offers from other clubs as he is not contracted to The Toffees, although he has come through the club`s academy.

Fulham boss Jean Tigana has seen the England Under-16 ace in action and wants to lure him to Craven Cottage, but Everton are hoping that he can be persuaded to stay.

"We have made Sean an offer and we hope he will sign," said club spokesman Ian Ross.

Sean`s father, Mick, who is Everton`s youth development officer, will be hoping that his son decides to stay with him on Merseyside.

Meanwhile, Everton are believed to have fined Ghanaian international Alex Nyarko two weeks` wages, after he failed to turn up for pre-season training.

Manager Walter Smith gave the 27-year-old extended leave, but he still failed to show.

"He was told to report for training on Monday and did not do so, and so the expectations for him turning up tomorrow are not great," said Smith.

"He has been in contact with the club but we will continue to monitor the situation during the week."

Everton are now desperately trying to offload the former Lens star, but the player`s lack of discipline is unlikely to attract any potential suitors.